Scent Profile
Top Notes: Grapefruit, Mandarin Orange, Sea Notes
Heart Notes: Neroli, Rosemary, Jasmine
Base Notes: Ambergris, Vetiver, Musk, Cedar
Opening (Bright & Refreshing)
Delphinus bursts open with a crisp, juicy citrus explosion, led by grapefruit and mandarin orange. The grapefruit is zesty and slightly bitter, while the mandarin adds a sweeter, juicier balance, making the opening feel both fresh and luxurious. The sea notes bring a salty, airy freshness, immediately evoking a Mediterranean coastline breeze rather than a synthetic aquatic vibe. This opening is clean, uplifting, and invigorating.
Mid (Aromatic & Elegant)
As the fragrance transitions, neroli and rosemary take over, bringing a sophisticated Mediterranean feel. The neroli is bright, slightly floral, and green, adding a refined crispness, while the rosemary adds an herbaceous touch, enhancing the fresh and aromatic character. Jasmine subtly weaves in, giving the composition a slightly creamy, floral smoothness that prevents it from becoming too sharp. This heart phase is where Delphinus differentiates itself from traditional aquatics—it’s more refined and layered rather than just fresh and fleeting.
Dry-Down (Warm, Woody, & Salty-Musky)
The dry-down is where the signature Creed DNA shines. The ambergris adds a salty, mineral-like depth, creating a natural oceanic vibe rather than an artificial marine note. The vetiver and cedar provide a clean, woody foundation, giving it masculinity and lasting power. Finally, musk rounds it out with a soft, slightly powdery warmth, making the dry-down sophisticated, slightly musky, and very wearable.
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Performance
Longevity: 7-9 hours, excellent for a fresh fragrance.
Projection: Moderate, creates an elegant aura but doesn’t overwhelm.
Sillage: Moderate to strong, leaves a noticeable yet refined scent trail.
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Versatility
Delphinus is a perfect everyday fragrance, offering freshness for warm days yet enough depth for evening wear.
Season: Ideal for spring and summer, but the warm base allows for some fall wear.
Occasion: Casual elegance, perfect for vacations, office settings, daytime outings, and even evening dinners by the sea.
Attire: Works well with light linen shirts, tailored summer outfits, or a casual yet polished look.
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Overall Rating
Scent: 9/10 (A luxurious take on citrus-aquatic with a refined dry-down)
Longevity: 8/10 (Excellent staying power for a fresh scent)
Projection: 7.5/10 (Strong enough to be noticed without overpowering)
Versatility: 9.5/10 (A true all-occasion fresh fragrance)
Value: 8/10 (Premium pricing, but a unique aquatic in Creed’s lineup)
